Job Details

Research Specialists I

Position Number: 6878190
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Position Type: Laboratory and Research

Research Specialists I

Job Summary

The Osterhout Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology is seeking a motivated Research Specialist I or II, depending upon previous experience, to support NIH-funded research investigating the neural and immune mechanisms underlying sickness behaviors, such as pain sensitivity, and neuroimmune communication. The lab uses cutting-edge neurobiology approaches including mouse behavioral assays, histology, chemogenetics, viral circuit tracing, single-cell transcriptomics, and spatial transcriptomics.

The Research Specialist will work closely with lab members to:

Set up and conduct experiments following established protocols in molecular neuroscience and immunology.
Perform mouse handling, husbandry, surgical procedures, and behavioral testing
Prepare and process mouse brain tissue for histology, immunostaining, in-situ hybridization, and imaging
Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data
Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to research documentation (manuscripts, reports, presentations, and grant materials)
Remain current on relevant research methods and laboratory techniques

Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu

The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.

Responsibilities
Research Specialist I

Set up and conduct experiments under close supervision
Perform routine mouse handling, injections (i.p., s.c.), and basic husbandry
Assist with mouse behavioral assays
Prepare tissue samples for histology, immunostaining, and imaging
Perform basic data entry, organization, and preliminary analysis
Maintain lab stocks, reagents, and equipment
Assist with preparation of research documentation
Follow established protocols with limited independent judgment

Requires:

Bachelor's degree (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related experience, or
Master's degree (or equivalency)

This is an Entry-Level position in the General Professional track.Job Code: P56431Grade: P12Expected Pay Range: $27,194 to $62,386

Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Research Specialist, I: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.

Preferences

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN44089B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary:
Department: 00219 - Neurobiology Research
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $27,194 to $62,386
Close Date: 4/27/2026
Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/195463